Water Purification in Cambodia UWAter University of Western Australia EWB Challenge 2008 Jessica Equid Tom Pope Andrew Stead John Verran Patrick DonovanBeau Mavric

Problem Definition 80% of deaths in Cambodia result from water borne illnesses Lack of sufficient, cost effective filters available Villagers source up to 16% of their water from deep wells – contains unsafe levels of arsenic Drinking water standards – pathogens, microorganisms and turbidity eliminated Cheap, Simple, Long-lasting water filter

Solution

Arsenic Removal Testing Small scale prototype constructed Varying concentrations of arsenic tested Reduced arsenic to safe levels – average reduction 89%

Turbidity Testing Utilised scale prototype Visual and taste tests performed on discharge from unit

Turbidity Testing Utilised scale prototype Visual and taste tests performed on discharge from unit

Implementation Locally available resources Local Labour & Construction Project Costing – cost of materials for single filter, estimated to be less than $500 Monitoring and maintenance – ensure filter provides safe water for extended time period Waste Management – safe disposal of all wastes

Impact assessment Environmental – arsenic sludge removal and disposal – all materials can be recycled Economic – local industries supported – jobs created – minimal ongoing costs Social – increased local knowledge base – Improve community health

Summary Filter is cheap, simple, long-lasting Proven to be affective Implementation and impacts considered and evaluated